AFCAFC WestBroncosNFLNFL Draft

Denver Broncos 2026 NFL Draft Preview

Share
Apr 24, 2025; Green Bay, WI, USA; Denver Broncos defensive back Jahdae Barron is selected as the No. 20 pick by the Denver Broncos during the NFL Draft at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Share

Despite the continuous grumblings against the Denver Broncos’ offense, a trip to the AFC championship game silenced the haters. However, fans will forever speculate about the potential outcomes if Bo Nix had not sustained a broken ankle against the Buffalo Bills.

With a new offensive coordinator in Davis Webb, the future is bright for the 2026 Broncos. Sean Payton has relieved playcalling duties to Webb, giving Broncos fans confidence in the franchise’s future. 

Broncos Draft Picks:

With free agency looming, the Broncos look to the NFL draft to reinforce positions and draft potential new stars. However, after the Jaylen Waddle trade, the Broncos only have three picks in the first four rounds:

  • Round 2: Pick 62
  • Round 4: Pick 108
  • Round 4: Pick 111
  • Round 5: Pick 170
  • Round 7: Pick 246
  • Round 7: Pick 256
  • Round 7: Pick 257

Broncos Positions of Need:

Sean Payton described the linebacker and running back positions as “musts” that the Broncos are aggressively pursuing. However, this was before the re-signing of both Tyler Badie and Jaleel McLaughlin. Knowing this, the Broncos clearly need depth on both sides and a solid inside linebacker, meaning they should pursue:

  • S
  • LB
  • OT

Key Draft Targets for Broncos:    

Jake Golday – LB – Cincinnati

Jake Golday may be the permanent replacement of Dre Greenlaw. He’s big and has explosive attacks on the line of scrimmage with grit; a heavy-handed linebacker that eliminates the run with ease. Golday has shined at the college level and enters the draft as a top 60 prospect. 

While Golday still needs some development, he would shine early in special teams. However, his future potential is unlimited with the right coaching staff. 

Trey Zuhn – OT – Texas A&M

Despite the terrific offensive line the Broncos boast, competition is never a bad thing. With age always on the horizon, the Broncos met with Trey Zuhn, looking to add depth to their offensive line. 

A first-team All-SEC honor player in 2025, Zuhn would be a great backup and future starter. Although he is likely to transition to a guard or center in the NFL, this would fit nicely as a Day 3 selection for the Broncos. 

Bud Clark – S – TCU

After the departure of P.J. Locke in free agency, a safety addition is a must for Denver. A sixth-year senior with plenty of length, Bud Clark is a wide receiver playing defense. 

Fifteen interceptions in four seasons is the type of turnover-hungry player Denver loves to employ. Although his stock is rising, the Broncos would be blessed to snag Clark in the fourth round.  

The Daily Diehard Newsletter

Join the Diehards!

Available 5 days a week in 5 minutes or less

Select list(s):

We don’t spam! Unsubscribe at any time

Share
Written by
Tobias Swiney

Tobias is currently a Senior at Liberty University studying a B.S. in Creative Writing: Journalism. From a young age he fell in love with football, and since then he has dedicated his time and efforts to turn his dream of analyzing and commentating professional football into reality. When he isn't writing articles about the Denver Broncos and Fantasy Football, you can catch him hosting his own podcast with his brother Seth.

Leave a comment

Related Articles
Oct 4, 2026; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan (4) reacts in the second half at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
EaglesNFCNFC EastNFC SouthNFLPanthers

The Panthers Can Pounce on a Reeling Eagles Team

The Carolina Panthers got a quick respite to retool, recharge, and reassess...

Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
NFC NorthNFLVikings

Brian Flores Is Changing the NFL Defensive Standard

Through the first four weeks of the 2026 NFL season, Brian Flores...

Oct 4, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles center Cam Jurgens (51) plays against the Los Angeles Rams at Lincoln Financial Field.
AFCAFC NorthNFLRavensTrending

Did the Ravens Make the Right Move for Cam Jurgens?

On Oct. 7, the Baltimore Ravens made a shocking trade with the...

49ersNFCNFC WestNFL

Mike Evans’ Addition Is Already Paying Off for the 49ers

Despite two fractured ribs, Mike Evans remains one of the most reliable...